ADDC presides over the event; stresses preservation of heritage
DH NEWS SERVICE
GANDERBAL, Apr 6
A one-day workshop-cum-training programme for the ‘Gyan Bharatam National Manuscript Survey’ was organized today at the Conference Hall of the Mini Secretariat in Ganderbal, bringing together officials, scholars, and field functionaries to prepare for the upcoming nationwide survey on ancient manuscripts. The initiative is aimed at identifying, documenting, and preserving valuable manuscripts that form an integral part of the country’s cultural and intellectual heritage.
The workshop was presided over by Additional District Development Commissioner Ganderbal, Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, and was attended by the Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, along with several other officers and officials. The programme served as a platform to equip local coordinators and surveyors with the necessary skills and technical knowledge required for conducting the survey efficiently and systematically.
Highlighting the importance of the initiative, the ADDC emphasized the cultural and historical value of ancient manuscripts, describing them as priceless repositories of traditional knowledge and heritage. He stated that such documents offer deep insights into the intellectual, literary, and scientific advancements of earlier times. Stressing the need for comprehensive documentation, he urged participants to undertake the survey with dedication so that no significant manuscript in the district remains unidentified or unrecorded. The workshop featured a series of technical sessions conducted by subject experts, focusing on the identification and classification of various types of manuscripts. Participants were trained in the use of standardized data collection formats to ensure uniformity and accuracy in documentation. Special emphasis was also placed on digital documentation techniques, which are essential for preserving manuscripts in a secure and accessible manner for future generations. Professor Jehangir Ahmad, Head of the Department of Persian at the University of Kashmir, served as the expert resource person for the workshop. He delivered an in-depth lecture on the importance of manuscript preservation and the need to safeguard these historical assets from deterioration and loss. He elaborated on the classification of manuscripts based on language, script, material, and subject matter, providing participants with a clear understanding of how to approach the survey process.
In his session, Professor Jehangir also explained the methodology to be adopted during fieldwork, including the protocols for documentation and the best practices to ensure the authenticity and reliability of collected data. He encouraged participants to maintain a meticulous approach and adhere strictly to the prescribed guidelines during the survey.
The programme witnessed active participation from district officers, surveyors, field staff, and representatives from various academic institutions. Their collective presence reflected a strong and coordinated effort towards preserving the rich manuscript heritage of the region.
The workshop concluded with an interactive session, during which participants raised queries, shared their concerns, and provided feedback on various aspects of survey implementation and documentation procedures. The discussions helped clarify doubts and further strengthened the preparedness of the participants for the upcoming survey.
